Thomas Joseph Farnsworth

Farnsworth, Thomas Joseph “Tom” - Age 57, of Grass Lake, Michigan, was tragically taken from us on December 7, 2024.  Tom, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, was born on July 3, 1967, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Edward E. and Sharon A. (Frick) Farnsworth. He married Chay Senter on August 31, 2001, in Flint, Michigan, and together they lovingly raised two daughters, Leah and Lyndsey Farnsworth. 

Tom was a 1986 graduate of Linden High School and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1990. He carried his pride as a veteran throughout his life. Tom was employed as a Primary Leader at Dexter Fastener Technologies (Dextech) for 34 years where he will be deeply missed. Tom had a unique ability to make work fun. His humor and upbeat energy turned every day into an opportunity for laughter and camaraderie. Tom was beloved by all who knew him or crossed his path. His kind heart, sharp humor, and unwavering willingness to help anyone in need made him an unforgettable presence in the lives of his family, friends, and community. 

An avid outdoorsman, Tom found immense joy in the pursuit of nature. He was a passionate hunter and fisherman, spending countless hours in the wilderness, whether tracking game through the woods or casting a line in the waters. Tom also had a deep love for NASCAR and football, often cheering for his favorite drivers and teams with the same passion he brought to every aspect of his life. 

Tom’s selflessness and devotion to his family and friends were unmatched. His legacy is one of unconditional love, endless generosity, sincerity and unforgettable memories shared with those closest to him. He leaves behind an incomprehensible void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire kindness, adventure, love and sacrifice for all. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Chay (Senter) Farnsworth; his daughters, Leah and Lyndsey Farnsworth; and his siblings: Sherrianne (Dan) Smarch of Gregory, MI; Shannon (Steve) Surman of Paris, TX; Extended family: Troy (Shelly) Richert and Theresa (Matt) Lefurgey. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Michael (Ashley) Terkawi, Shyanne (Tommy) Showerman, Devon (Kendyll) Iwanski, Katelyn Farnsworth, Justin and Delaney Norris, Jackson Lund, Kaylee Pawlowski, Oz Horton, Lauren Smarch, and Natalie Smarch; Great nieces Noelle and Charlie Showerman, and Halle Riley; Additionally, he is survived by his mother-in-law, Pam Putnam; father-in-law, Eric Putnam; sisters-in-law, Mandy (Bart) Lund and Ashley Senter; and step-sisters, Michelle (Dennis) Ackels and Stephanie (Rob) Hinze-Wood. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Hinze; stepfather, Paul Hinze; father, Edward E. Farnsworth; brother, Edward L. Farnsworth; father-in-law, Arthur (Larry) Senter; and sister-in-law, Devin Norris. 

A celebration of Tom's Life, Sharing Service will be held 12:30 PM Friday, December 13, 2024 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Road, Fenton. (The service will be live streamed and can be viewed below Tom's obituary here on this page). Visitation will be held at the funeral home Friday from 10 AM until the time of the Sharing Service. Burial immediately following at 2:30 PM at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.  A Luncheon will be at 3:30 PM Friday at Hope Lutheran Church, 7344 Silver Lake Road, Linden, MI 48451. Those desiring may make contributions to Foundation for Hope Outdoor Adventures, 7400 Hickory Valley Dr., Fenton, MI 48430 in Tom’s name.